The New York Jets have released LB Bryan Thomas and have signed CB Donnie Fletcher from the practice squad. The announcements were made by General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.

Thomas (LB/6-4/265/Alabama-Birmingham/Birmingham, AL) originally joined the Jets as a first-round pick in the 2002 NFL Draft. In his career, he has started 94-of-146 games, registering 439 tackles, 31 sacks, seven forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries. He has appeared in 11 playoff games (nine starts), ranking second in franchise history.

Drafted as a defensive end from the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Thomas switched to outside linebacker in 2006 when the team switched to a 3-4 defense. He started all 16 games that season, registering a career-best 8.5 sacks and 77 tackles. Since 2006, Thomas has logged 24.5 of his 31 sacks, leading the team in 2006 and 2010.

Fletcher (CB/6-1/195/Boston College/Cleveland, OH) signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent (05/04/12). He was signed to the Jets practice squad (09/01/12) after he was waived by the Jets following training camp (08/31/12).